We all want an easy-to-use skin care device that looks great, is affordable and has a long list of skin benefits. The Jade Roller fits that description, so it's no surprise that this beautiful tool is everywhere.
How do I use the Jade Roller?
With its popularity showing no signs of stopping, I have repeatedly answered questions about the Jade Roller for my clients in the treatment room. Many times I also find myself calmly answering by making hand gestures in the air as curious strangers watch from the party.
Face forward, head straight and head high.
Gently place the Emerald Roller vertically on the hairline at the top of your forehead. Roll downward, along the periphery of the face, across the temples, over the outer cheeks and chin, rotating the chin 45 degrees, then down the sides of the neck.
Pause and press 3 times. [like a gentle suction motion]
and repeat ......
Repeat 3 times from forehead to collarbone. Repeat on the other side for the outer surface circumference roll. Pause and press 3 times. [like a gentle suction motion]
Repeat 3 times from forehead to clavicle.
Overview.
Left roll: face circumference and neck > pump at clavicle x3
Right Roll: Facial Circumference and Neck > Suction at Clavicle x3
What's the difference between jade roller and gua sha?
The main difference between a jade roller and a gua sha tool is that a jade roller is primarily a lymphatic drainage massage, while gua sha is a fascial [i.e. fibrous tissue] release massage. Think foam shafts, but for your face. My own fassia tool is designed with a different edge because the fascia is multidirectional, so to properly release the tightness, you need to use it slightly differently than the jade roller.
The process feels particularly relaxing as you are gradually releasing tension from your face. Imagine your neck or back muscles tightening up. When you use a foam shaft or foam ball, you are applying pressure to create blood flow and break down the fascia, which brings relief. These tools work the same way. Their common goal is to promote optimal circulation and lymphatic drainage.
As for the reason you see so many different variations, it's partly spiritual and partly to cater to social media. "There are many healing and spiritual beliefs surrounding the different stones and crystals. For the layman, rose quartz is often thought to radiate loving energy, clear quartz opens the heart, and jade is both soothing and purifying. Choose rose quartz if you prefer to incorporate the material into your environment, or stainless steel if it's more your aesthetic. Please make sure that whatever material you choose remains hygienic and unbreakable.
Since my foray into facial massage, I can see why so many people have become converts; these tools really do offer the sensory experience of a luxurious long facial. My beauty-related laziness means I can't claim to use any of them all the time, but on weekends, when I'm feeling particularly indulgent, I reach for my jade roller or clear quartz tool.
I haven't seen any firming or contouring benefits (if anything, they're definitely reserved for those who can stick to a routine), but they do give me a subtle glow that boosts circulation. Acid peels and active ingredient serums can do this much faster, but the appeal of these tools is that they slow you down. Maybe it's the emerald and rose quartz talking, but I always feel surprisingly pampered after 10 minutes. For those of you who can't go to the spa when you're in a bad mood (so, everyone reading this and me), they're well worth the investment.
